Varecia

The genus Varecia refers to ruffed lemurs, a type of primate native to Madagascar. These lemurs are known for their striking black-and-white or black-and-red coloration and inhabit the rainforests of eastern Madagascar.1

Ruffed lemurs are part of the family Lemuridae, which includes other well-known lemurs like the ring-tailed lemur. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and live in small family groups where females are dominant. Ruffed lemurs are arboreal, spending most of their time in trees, and are capable of leaping significant distances between them. Their diet consists of fruits, leaves, and insects.12